Uttarakhand, often referred to as the "Land of Gods", is a picturesque state located in Northern India. It is renowned for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, serene lakes, ancient temples, and adventure sports opportunities. If you're planning a trip to Uttarakhand and wondering how to reach there by flight, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information.
Flight Connectivity to Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is well-connected to major Indian cities and several international destinations through its domestic and international airports. The major airports in Uttarakhand are:
- Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun: Located in Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, Jolly Grant Airport is the primary domestic airport serving the state. It is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center and offers regular flights to and from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara operate regular flights to Dehradun.
- Pantnagar Airport: Situated in Pantnagar, near the popular hill station of Nainital, Pantnagar Airport serves as a gateway to the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is well-connected to Delhi and operates regular flights by airlines like Air India. This airport offers convenient access to destinations like Nainital, Jim Corbett National Park, and Ranikhet.
- Lakshman Jhula Airport, Rishikesh: Located in Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhula Airport is a small domestic airport that caters to chartered flights and helicopter services. It provides convenient access to popular destinations like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and the Char Dham Yatra circuit.
Flight Options and airlines
When planning your flight to Uttarakhand, you have several options and airlines to choose from. The available airlines vary depending on the airport you choose to fly into. Here are some common airlines that operate flights to Uttarakhand:
- Air India: Air India, the national carrier of India, operates regular flights to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and Pantnagar Airport.
- IndiGo: IndiGo, one of India's largest low-cost airlines, operates flights to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- SpiceJet: SpiceJet, another popular low-cost airline in India, offers flights to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- Vistara: Vistara, a full-service airline, operates flights to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- Helicopter Services: For those seeking a unique and scenic way to reach Uttarakhand, helicopter services are available from Lakshman Jhula Airport in Rishikesh. These services provide access to destinations like Kedarnath, Badrinath, and the Valley of Flowers.
Flight Booking Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind while booking your flights to Uttarakhand:
- Advance Booking: It is advisable to book your flights well in advance to secure the best fares, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices of different airlines and booking platforms to find the most affordable option.
- Flexible Travel Dates: If possible, be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of lower fares.
- Check Baggage Allowance: Before confirming your booking, check the baggage allowance and any additional charges to avoid any surprises at the airport.
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Subscribe to airline newsletters or follow them on social media to stay updated with any promotional offers or discounts.
Conclusion
Reaching Uttarakhand by flight is a convenient and time-saving option for travelers from various parts of India and abroad. Whether you choose to fly into Dehradun, Pantnagar, or Rishikesh, there are multiple airlines and flight options available to suit your travel needs. By following the tips mentioned above and planning your flight in advance, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to this magnificent destination.
If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to share it with your fellow travelers. Happy journey and enjoy your time in Uttarakhand!